Foundation Degree Case Studies

Judith Larsen, Foundation Degree in Business IT and Networking

“I was an Operations and IT manager in a local Housing Association and although I knew a lot about IT I didn’t have a formal qualification. So I decided that by studying the in Business IT and Networking Foundation Degree I could fill in all the gaps and increase my knowledge.”

“I was also particularly interested in the networking side of IT and this course has given me a deeper understanding of the subject as well as the opportunity to be CISCO certified - which is a highly respected qualification. The CISCO qualification can open up a lot of doors within networking and only Bedford College and one other college offer this course.”

"At first it was a bit nerve-wracking returning to education but the tutors were fantastic and I was enthusiastic to learn.  The tutors gave me constructive feedback and whenever I felt overwhelmed with my work they helped me achieve deadlines and worked with me to fit the learning around my lifestyle.  When I successfully completed the course it gave me a real sense of achievement."

Judith graduated in July 2009 and was awarded the Foundation Degree with Distinction. Judith went on to top-up her Foundation Degree to a BSc (Hons) in Computer Networking at the University of Bedfordshire and graduated with First Class Honours in July 2010.

Greg Myburgh, Foundation Degree in Business IT and Networking

"I decided that if I was going to commit myself to studying that I should do something worthwhile so I chose Bedford College's FdSc in Business IT and Networking course because I wanted a degree level course and I believe that prospective employers find more value in degree level courses than other courses - especially in IT."

“I always found the tutors to be knowledgeable and approachable and they always had the student’s best interests at heart. I thoroughly enjoyed working with my tutor. The practicals were always interesting and challenging and the sense of achievement after completing the Networking assignments was significant!”

"I plan to continue along my career path in Software Development and since starting my course have become a team leader and am working my way towards more senior roles."

Greg successfuly graduated with the Foundation Degree in Business IT and Networking in July 2010.

Neil Baddeley, Foundation Degree in Business IT and Networking

I work for Bedfordshire Police in the IT department and wanted to come on this course to improve my career prospects.  I had already studied at the College a few years back and that helped me get the job I'm in now.

Bedford College is convenient for me and the course is great as it's really relevant to my work.  In fact, I'm already using skills I've learnt on the course in my day-to-day role.

I'm hoping this course will open up new opportunities for me and mean I can progress within the force.

Neil successfully completed the second year of part-time study on the Foundation Degree in Business IT and Networking in June 2011.

Helen Bettles-Hill, Foundation Degree in IT Networking and Security

"I originally applied for several different local colleges but Bedford College offered something different.  Coming into College and meeting the tutors helped me make my choice."

“This is my first year of the course and it’s already given me the confidence to apply for a different job. I applied for a role at Volkswagen Group within the Information Systems department. The head of the IT department personally called me to say that because of all the experience and skills which I had gained on the course they would like to offer me a more responsible role instead. I couldn’t believe it, I was so pleased.”

“I’m really happy I decided to study at Bedford College, I’ve worked really hard and achieved good results. I thought it would be difficult returning to education after so long - but it wasn’t. The tutors have been really helpful.”

"This qualification has definitely made me feel like a more valued member of staff, I get really good feedback from my boss. Employers definitely appreciate someone who works hard and is prepared to gain professional development."

Helen successfully completed the first year of part-time study on the Foundation Degree in IT Networking and Security in June 2011.